Do We Really Want Immortality?

By: David Brin

Narrated by: David Brin

We moderns take for granted many traits that were those of gods. Like flying through the air. We fill dark rooms with sudden lavish light, with the twitch of a finger. Average folks send messages or observe events across the globe through crystal tubes we command like genies. And yet the one trait of mortality that clings to us is...mortality.

Today, a fresh crop of true believers, including brilliant scientists, view death itself as a problem to be solved. Are they fantasizing? What are the prospects and problems and unforeseen side effects of longer life spans?

©1999 David Brin (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

Interesting Perspectives on Immortality

Brin addresses the science behind historical increases in human lifespan, what could be done to increase our lifespans in the future, and the ramifications of cryonics / other brain preservation techniques. Technology in this area has advanced beyond the simple frozen brain in a jar we're all familiar with.

He wonders out loud what would even happen if a person's brain was "unfrozen" in the future, and makes reference to a number of science fiction works in which this is part of the plot.

I really liked this. It was full of good science and interesting speculation. And after listening I think I'll be fine just having my brain activity end in the 21st century when my physical body ceases to function for whatever reason.